7.18.2012

Miss Peru Universe 2012 apologizes for her homophobic remarks

(Foto: Félix Ingaruca / El Comercio)

In a message addressed to the general public, Miss Peru Universe 2012 Cindy Mejia regretted her controversial remarks to a local newspaper.

"Regarding the interview that I gave to Perú 21 and the negative consequences that my response had when I was asked the question, 'What would you do if you had a homosexual son?' I must say that it has not been at any moment my intention to affect or to offend the lesbian, gay, transsexual and bisexual community, as well as their families and friends, since they deserve my utmost respect and I appreciate them. That is why I'd like to express my apologies for my remarks."

Mejía also acknowledged that her opinion was "foolish and regrettable". "Due to my lack of understanding on the particular subject, an error that I committed and that I will never commit again. I would regret deeply if my remarks contributed to discrimination and incited violence towards the LGBT community. Therefore, I promise to fight against homophobia and sexism in my role as representative of Peruvian beauty."

In the communiqué, the beauty queen indicated that today she visited the directors of the Movimiento Homosexual de Lima (MHOL) to apologize in person and " to receive orientation and coordinate future involvement in events with this institution."